EP184 Fieldwork in Action: Addressing Flood Risks in Queens with Cheyenne Sewell

In this episode, we speak with Cheyenne Sewell (MPH '25) about the power of interpersonal communication and qualitative research in public health. Cheyenne discusses her transition from an anthropology background into community health science, highlighting how public health extends beyond the numbers to embrace human stories and build rapport with local populations. During her fieldwork in Dr. Moon Howard's Assessing Community Health Needs course, she collaborated with the Southeast Queens Residential Environmental Justice Coalition (SQREJC) to conduct door-to-door surveys on ongoing flooding issues. Cheyenne reflects on balancing a rigorous academic schedule with two part-time jobs at NYU Tandon and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, study groups, and faculty mentorship. Looking toward the future, Cheyenne shares her passion for maternal health and her work toward becoming a certified postpartum doula through DONA International. This episode highlights how GPH's flexible academic pathways and location in New York City empower students to translate classroom learning into hands-on field experience and community advocacy. To learn more about the NYU School of Global Public Health, and how our innovative programs are training the next generation of public health leaders, visit http://www.publichealth.nyu.edu.